Newcastle pushes ban on smart glasses in pools and change rooms
Newcastle Council Labour councillors propose rules banning smart glasses at council pools and change rooms.
Newcastle Council is moving to restrict smart glasses at public facilities over privacy concerns. Labour councillors want to ban the devices at council-owned pools, ocean baths, childcare centres and sportsground change rooms.
Smart glasses have cameras and can record video and images. Cheaper models now cost less than $100.
Councillor Deahnna Richardson said technology has changed so fast that the risk is just too big for individuals to manage alone. Brisbane and Yarra councils have already enforced bans, while Port Stephens is considering one.
If Newcastle councillors support the motion on Tuesday, the chief executive will work with facility operators to establish rules. People using the glasses for accessibility would still be permitted to wear them, but could not record others without consent.
- less than $100
- Cheaper model cost
- Brisbane City Council, Yarra Council
- Councils with bans
Why it mattersCovert recording in change rooms and pools is a serious privacy and safety risk; policy clarity shifts responsibility from individuals to venue operators.
AustraliaThis policy would affect anyone using Newcastle council pools, baths and facilities; other Australian councils may follow if the motion passes.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 d ago
